Overview & Reviews

It's no exaggeration to say that the BMW 5 Series sets the standard for premium sport sedans. Introduced for the 1972 model year, the midsize 5 Series has long offered a near-perfect blend of performance, luxury and interior room. It's also highly regarded for its refined styling and innovative technology features.

Most BMW 5 Series models you'll come across will be rear-wheel-drive sedans, though you'll stumble upon the occasional 5 Series wagon on the used car market. In addition, all-wheel drive has been optional for some time, and many used sedans in colder climes will be so equipped. Traditionally, the 5 Series has featured an inline six-cylinder gasoline engine, but BMW has also offered V8 engines, turbocharged four-cylinders and even diesel-powered options. When people ask us to recommend luxury cars, the BMW 5 Series is invariably high on the list, new or used.

User Reviews:

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  Great car - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By thormark - July 14 - 10:00 am

  I have the SMG transmission which is superb. Can drive as a manual when desired but also as an automatic while sipping your coffee on the way to work. The 545 is very quick and fantastic for highway driving. Super stable at high speeds. Fantastic brakes-stops on a dime.

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  i didnt think they could make a better5 - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By rdavidml - July 14 - 10:00 am

  Beautiful exaust note. Super accelleration of this very reliable and well tested 8 cylinder. Greatest feature with this engine is the active roll stabilization. no lean in hard curves. Very good workmanship as expected. I have had no problems with the electronics, incl. BMW phone.The large wheels/tires make the look of this car.

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  Happy 545 Owner - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By JDN - July 14 - 10:00 am

  Have had 545 SMG for one month and one day as a replacement for 540-6spd. Car was delivered in pristine condition. Absolutely no defects have surfaced in the first month. Car is quieter, smoother, more stylish, more technically advanced, and more satisfying to own than my previous wheels.

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  One of the best ever built - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By Saurabh - July 14 - 10:00 am

  The new 545 has really made a mark for itself in the automotive industry with robust new technology, design & performance. The design is GREAT, technology (active steering) is none like any other & the performance is absolutely exhilirating (325 horses worth). Overall, Ive never driven a better car. Definetely worth getting for however much the cost or atleast worth test drivign.

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  530 - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By corkdsp - July 14 - 10:00 am

  8k miles so far and loving this car. Only a few minor computer issues that were fixed by dealer with software upgrade. Car drives amazing)

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  Awesome Automobile! - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By Lomag - July 14 - 10:00 am

  Boy oh boy! Ive been waiting for this car since late 2001 and I finally got it in Feb 2004. This car is excellent however the sport package is a requirement if you choose to buy it. Active steering is incredible and the active roll stabilization which produces almost no body roll while cornering is incredible as well. These two features are a must!! The interior could use some quality improvement in materials in certain areas. Im sure minor things like this will be worked out over the cars lifetime.

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  Fantastic - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By ajm2727 - July 9 - 2:06 am

  Car is a dream. The ride is like that of any luxury sedan, yet the car feels tight and responsive instead of much like others. Power, even in my 528 is good, and the engine is seamless. Seats are comfortable and every button is where is should be - even iDrive, which is not the problem it is rumored to be. I have no problems using it at all and 10 minutes of instruction from my salesman was all it took. The car looks great. Sit it next to a Benz E, Lexus ES, Infinity M, or Audi A6, and it beauty prize goes to the BMW. It is the best of the bunch. Wonderful car!!

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  The 528I is definitely not a sports sedan - 2016 BMW 5-Series
  By Gary - July 5 - 12:04 pm

  Build quality was fine; but it is sluggish and slow and lacks the exciting driving feel youd expect in a BMW. The Turbo 4 is inadequate and leaves it under powered and wanting. Ive had that engine before and it starts to burn oil between changes at about 20,000 miles so be warned. The navigation system still requires a PHD and a lot of patience. Its not intuitive. Unfortunately, the car drives like a Buick. If Id wanted a Buick I would have bought one for $20,000 less. Very disappointed. Ive owned six BMWs and this is the worst. Believe the new redesign in 17 is intended to remedy some of its faults.

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  awesome - 2005 BMW 5-Series
  By dentkorn - July 2 - 10:00 am

  Car drives and handles beyond expectations.Annoying cuphoder,and radio only blemish to this buyer.

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  My 2011 BMW 528i - 2011 BMW 5-Series
  By Bill H - June 24 - 1:44 pm

  Good upscale transportation. Very comfortable and dependable ride. Have had some trouble having recalls performed as do not have a relationship with a dealer. None in close proximity to me and this is a seasonal car.